Should You Replace TPMS When Replacing Tires?

Tire pressure monitoring systems let you know when to fill your tires, but they’re attached to each wheel. If you change the tires, you might think it’s time to get a new TPMS since the pressure will drop drastically.

However, these impressive gadgets can last for quite some time without needing repairs.

You don’t need to replace the TPMS when replacing tires because its battery lasts five to ten years. If the TPMS provides false readings after changing the tires, you can relearn it to the vehicle by cycling to the vehicle’s settings menu and choosing to relearn the TPMS.

Throughout this article, we’ll discuss what happens to the tire pressure monitoring system when you change the tires, when you should replace the TPMS to prevent it from sending inaccurate readings, and how you can program a new one to your tires and vehicle. Enjoy!

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Will Changing the Tires Affect TPMS?

Changing the tires won’t affect the TPMS because the system is designed to handle pressure fluctuations. The TPMS will signal low pressure when you remove the tire, but it’ll go back to normal when you add the new inflated tire. Some TPMS systems take a few miles of driving to balance out.

So, what should you know about TPMS when it comes to changing your tires?

• You can use the same TPMS for several sets of tires. Tire pressure monitoring systems are attached to the inner rim, not the tire. When you deflate and remove the tire, the TPMS stays in place. Once you add the new tire and reset the system, it’ll work as well as new (assuming the battery is in good condition).
• Improper tire installation can loosen or damage the tire pressure monitoring system. If you try the classic mistake of putting a 2 x 4 on the tire and driving your vehicle on it to deflate it, you can break the TPMS. Always manually remove the tire with a tool, not a vehicle’s weight.
• The TPMS should be reset every time you change or rotate the tires. According to Midas, the tire pressure monitoring system needs a reset because the massive sudden pressure drop can throw it off. If you have a professional working on the vehicle, they can reset the TPMS for you.
• Some monitoring systems blink or illuminate when the spare tire is being used. This issue is common and expected. Spare tires aren’t designed to be full-time replacements; They should only be used to get you to the closest tire shop or Mechanic. Once you add the new tire, the system will be set.
• It might take several miles for the TPMS to register after changing the tires, especially if it’s cold outside. Cold weather often influences the tire’s pressure, which is why some TPMS meters light up when there’s frost on the tires. Driving on asphalt heats them and increases the tire’s pressure.

Changing your tires and keeping the same TPMS is very common. The vast majority of drivers don’t need to switch their monitoring systems more than once every half-decade. If you’re unsure whether you need to replace TPMS and you’re about to get new tires, head to the next section.

When Should You Replace the TPMS?

It would be best to replace the TPMS every five years or so, based on when the battery starts to fade out. Then, unlike tires, you don’t need to get a new monitoring system when you get a flat. On the other hand, replacing it with a new one might be time if your TPMS sends false readings or won’t report low-pressure problems.

Your Mechanic suggests replacing the TPMS when it doesn’t read properly or can’t be reset. These are typical signs of a failing TPMS battery, so it’s time to get a new one.

If you haven’t rotated the tires recently, you can take the time to do so while adding a new TPMS to each tire.

How Do You Program a New TPMS for Your Tires?

To program a new TPMS for your tires, follow these steps:

1. Put your vehicle in park and turn on the ignition. AVI On-Demand recommends putting the parking brake on to prevent the car from rolling when you’re working on the tires.
2. Click the menu button and look for the settings option to find TPMS (sometimes labeled ‘tire pressure monitoring system’). TPMS is usually located on the steering wheel in newer models. The menu will be shown on the dashboard or the center console.
3. Choose the button that sets or relearns the TPMS of your tires. Some of these buttons say, ‘Clear,’ but it all means the same thing.
4. Use a TPMS relearning tool against the driver’s side tire (or whichever tire the vehicle recommends). The Autel Relearn TPMS Tool is excellent because all you have to do is put it near the tire and click a button for it to register. You can also use it to reprogram, reset, relearn, or view the pressure readings.
5. Fill up the tires to the manufacturer’s guidelines or those listed on the tires. Top off the tires as you always would. Drive the vehicle around the block a few times, then check the TPMS to ensure that all tires are adequately inflated.

As you can see, programming your tires with a TPMS is relatively easy and doesn’t take too long. Doing it yourself will save a lot of time and money, and you also won’t have to worry about driving to a local mechanic. You’ll be good to go as long as you have the TPMS tool. However, keep in mind that this isn’t an option for some old-school vehicles.

Conclusion

Tire pressure monitoring systems provide modern convenience that lets you use external tools or your vehicle’s built-in settings to watch your tires’ performance. In addition, there’s no need to replace the TPMS when you switch to new tires unless the system has been sending false reports or the battery is dead.